The UPSC Prelims is the first and most crucial stage in India’s most competitive exam. It consists of two papers:

• Paper 1 – General Studies (GS)
  
• Paper 2 – Civil Services Aptitude Test (CSAT)
  

Here’s a clear list of what you should do and avoid while solving both papers during the actual exam.

✅ What to Do in UPSC Prelims Paper 1 (GS)

1. Start with Easy Questions First
   
   • Read the paper once and attempt the questions you are 100% sure about.
     
   • Save time and gain confidence.
     
2. Use the Elimination Method
   
   • If confused between 2 options, use logic and eliminate the unlikely ones.
     
3. Manage Time Wisely
   
   • Don’t spend more than 2-3 minutes on any single question.
     
   • Keep checking the time after every 20-25 questions.
     
4. Mark Answers Carefully
   
   • Fill the OMR sheet regularly, not all at once at the end.
     
   • Be neat and double-check the question number and bubble.
     
5. Stay Calm and Focused
   
   • If a few questions seem tough, don’t panic. The paper is designed to test thinking.
     

❌ What NOT to Do in Paper 1 (GS)

1. Don’t Overthink Questions
   
   • The options are made to confuse. Go with your first logical guess after eliminating.
     
2. Avoid Guesswork in All Questions
   
   • Blind guessing may cost you negative marks. Attempt only when you can rule out some options.
     
3. Don’t Skip OMR Filling Till Last Minute
   
   • In a hurry, you may mismatch question numbers and bubbles.
     
4. Don’t Discuss Paper Outside
   
   • Focus on Paper 2 instead of wasting energy on comparing answers.
     

✅ What to Do in UPSC Prelims Paper 2 (CSAT)

1. Start with Your Strong Area
   
   • If you are better at comprehension, attempt English first.
     
   • If you’re good with math and reasoning, do those first.
     
2. Read Questions Carefully
   
   • CSAT is all about comprehension and logic. A small error in understanding can change the answer.
     
3. Use Rough Space Smartly
   
   • For math/logical reasoning, draw neat figures or write clearly to avoid silly mistakes.
     
4. Attempt At Least 27-30 Questions with 90% Accuracy
   
   • You need 33% to qualify. Don’t take it lightly.
     

❌ What NOT to Do in Paper 2 (CSAT)

1. Don’t Ignore CSAT
   
   • Many students fail in CSAT even after scoring well in GS.
     
   • Treat it seriously.
     
2. Avoid Time Traps
   
   • Some puzzles or long passages may take too much time. Skip and return if needed.
     
3. Don’t Depend on Calculators or Guessing
   
   • Practice mental calculation before the exam. No gadgets are allowed.
     
4. Don’t Waste Time on One Tough Question
   
   • Move on. Come back later if time allows.
     

Final Tips for the Day of Exam

• 🕗 Reach Early: Be at the center 45 minutes before time.
  
• 🧾 Carry ID & Admit Card: No entry without them.
  
• 🖊️ Carry Black Ballpoint Pen: OMR needs black ink.
  
• 🤲 Stay Calm & Confident: You’ve prepared hard, now it’s execution time.
  

Conclusion:
UPSC Prelims is not just about knowledge but smart strategy. Avoid panic, manage your time, and play to your strengths in both Paper 1 and Paper 2. These do’s and don’ts will help you avoid common mistakes and perform your best.

Best of luck for UPSC Prelims 2025! You’ve got this.